Discovering Ogano’s Charm: A Kabuki and Pilgrimage Town Walking Tour
The serene town of Ogano-machi, encircled by mountains, blossomed as a silk weaving center from the Meiji Era to the early Showa Era, with sericulture at its core. Following an exploration of the local Kabuki culture, visitors can stroll through the town's streets, which still bear remnants of its prosperous days as a silk-producing hub. Lunch will feature the town's renowned 'warajikatsu' dish. In the afternoon, guests can indulge in the elegance of Chichibu Meisen kimono at the historic Suzaki Ryokan, established during the Meiji era. To conclude their journey, they can visit the venerable Juurinji temple in Ogano, taking a moment to reflect on the town's rich history amidst its sacred surroundings. This captivating itinerary offers a delightful opportunity to fully immerse oneself in traditional Japanese culture in Ogano.
Start
Ikebukuro Station (8:30 AM)
Approximateley 2.5 hours : First take the Seibu Railway Laview from Ikebukuro Station to Seibu-Chichibu Station (1hr 20min), then take the Seibu Bus (approx. 40min). Get off at the Town Hospital stop (Chou-ritsu Byouin-mae) and walk 3 minutes.
11:00 AM - 11:30 AM
An interactive facility to experience the allure of traditional performing arts
Take in this town of Kabuki at the Ogano Cultural Center
At the Ogano Cultural Centre, visitors are invited to immerse themselves in the rich tapestry of Japanese culture, with a special emphasis on Kabuki, the beloved traditional performing art of Ogano-machi. Explore the captivating world of Ningyo Joruri (puppet theatre) and Rakugo as well. With engaging exhibitions on Kabuki and live performances, guests have the opportunity to delve into the captivating traditional culture of Ogano firsthand.
7-minute walk
11:40 AM - 12:30 PM
An Exciting New Place to Experience Kimono
Kimono Dressing in a Century-Old Ryokan Inn
"While Kyoto is the most famous producer of kimono textiles, it’s far from the only one in Japan. Nestled amidst spectacular mountains, kimono textiles have also been crafted in the Chichibu region for around 2,000 years. Sericulture, the cultivation of silkworms for silk production, flourished in mountainous regions like Chichibu where rice cultivation was limited. Initially, silk was used as clothing for commoners, with stronger varieties prized by warriors. Over time, advancements in design gave rise to Chichibu meisen silk, renowned for its beauty and popularized nationwide from the Taisho to early Showa period (1912-1945) as fashionable attire for women. Textile work, including sericulture, employed about 70% of Chichibu's population during this period, establishing it as the region's primary industry. In the charming old highway town of Ogano is the over 100-year-old Suzaki Ryokan, which offers a kimono dressing experience to let visitors partake in this cherished tradition.
12:40 PM - 1:40 PM
Warajikatsu : Ogano's Traditional Local Delicacy
The specialty is Ogano's local dish, 'Warajikatsu'. The 'Waraji' refers to traditional Japanese sandals, while 'Katsu' means cutlet. Together, they refer to the size of the cutlet being the same as these traditional Japanese sandals, making the dish incredibly satisfying to eat. Experience the authentic flavors of Ogano with this signature dish, served in a traditional setting reminiscent of days gone by.
2:40 PM - 3:40 PM
Walking Tour to Reflect on the History of Ogano
Strolling Through the Charming Streets of Ogano
The streets in the center of Ogano-machi have maintained their Edo-period facade, with the narrow cobblestone alleys lined with traditional warehouse-style townhouses further adding to the nostalgic atmosphere. On festival days, you can hear the sound of drums and cheering voices echoing from these alleys, making you feel like you've traveled back 200 years in Japan. Why not take a leisurely stroll and immerse yourself in the traditional charm while exploring at your own pace?
3:40 PM - 4:10 PM
Tranquil Beauty Woven by Ancient Temples and Nature's Harmony
Juurinji: A Small Temple in the Heart of the Town
While it may have a simple appearance, this temple boasts a history of over 1,000 years. It has been cherished by the townspeople for generations.
Approximateley 2.5 hours: Walk to the bus stop Ogano-machi (3min), then take the Seibu Bus to Seibu-Chichibu Station (45min). Then get on the Seibu Railway Laview (1hr 20min).
Goal
Ikebukuro Station(6:40 PM)
Column
Miyamoto-no-Yu, a Hot Spring Inn in Ogano-machi ： Miyamoto-no-Yu is a hidden gem of a hot spring inn nestled in the charming old-time streets of Ogano-machi, Saitama Prefecture. What sets it apart is its unique proprietor, a former sumo wrestler. Guests can explore sumo memorabilia at the inn and indulge in the famous Chanko Hot Pot for dinner. Relax and rejuvenate both body and mind during your stay at this little paradise. Furthermore, there are plenty of places worth visiting in Chichibu besides Ogano-machi. On the following day, you can take a stroll through Chichibu city to places like Chichibu Shrine or the Chichibu-Meisen Museum, or extend your trip to the famous Nagatoro for river rafting.